Travis County: Then and Now

Held on October 26, 2012, the 5^th annual History Day event celebrated Travis County: Then and Now by looking at the ways the county has changed over its history. The event took place at 700 Lavaca in the Commissioners Courtroom, with historical displays presented in the Hall of Government. History Day was preceded by a building dedication for 700 Lavaca led by Judge Samuel T. Biscoe, with remarks by Commissioners Margaret Gómez and Karen Huber. Two speakers, R.G. Ratcliffe and Dr. Jeffrey S. Kerr presented riveting stories of early Travis County history.

When Travis County was established in 1840, the population was reported to be 856. Now, with well over 1,000,000 residents, Travis County has clearly undergone a complete transformation in the past 180 years. These changes can be seen everywhere – in the form and function of the government, in the buildings and infrastructure, in the population and demographics, in its communities (some lost and some new), and even in its politics. The slideshow below illustrates just a few of the ways in which Travis County has changed since its formation.

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Then and Now Photos

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When Travis County was established in 1840, the population was reported to be 856. Now, with well over 1,000,000 residents, Travis County has clearly undergone a complete transformation in the past 180 years. These changes can be seen everywhere – in the form and function of the government, in the buildings and infrastructure, in the population and demographics, in its communities (some lost and some new), and even in its politics. The photos below illustrate just a few of the ways in which Travis County has changed since its formation.

Click on photos to see larger size.

1855 Courthouse

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1876 Courthouse

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1931 Courthouse

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